Michael Jackson: Life in pictures

CaptionJoseph Jackson's wonder group

Motown

Michael Jackson grew up in Gary, Ind., the seventh of nine children. Patriarch Joseph Jackson saw star potential in his sons, and molded Michael, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon into a singing group called the Jackson 5.

Michael Jackson grew up in Gary, Ind., the seventh of nine children. Patriarch Joseph Jackson saw star potential in his sons, and molded Michael, Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon into a singing group called the Jackson 5. (Motown)

Joseph Jackson wasn't the only one who saw talent in his young sons: In 1969, Motown Records president Berry Gordy Jr. signed the group to his label. It didn't take long for Jackson 5 songs like "ABC" and "I'll Be There" to become pop favorites.

Joseph Jackson wasn't the only one who saw talent in his young sons: In 1969, Motown Records president Berry Gordy Jr. signed the group to his label. It didn't take long for Jackson 5 songs like "ABC" and "I'll Be There" to become pop favorites. (Associated Press)